The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services oversees two awards programs designed to recognize individuals with developmental disabilities and the people who serve them. These programs include the Developmental Disabilities Hall of Fame Awards and The Erin Ritchey Memorial Awards.
Launched in 1988, the Developmental Disabilities Hall of Fame Awards recognize the outstanding efforts of individuals in a variety of areas, including advocacy, art, athletics, community service, employment and personal accomplishment.
The Erin Ritchey Memorial Awards, created by Erin's parents, Kenneth and Nancy Ritchey, recognize the personal and professional efforts of individuals and/or groups throughout the Miami Valley that make significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.
The Erin Ritchey Memorial Fund was established by her family through the generous donations of people throughout Ohio. This fund makes possible the Memorial Awards, which serve as a tribute to one child so that other children and adults with developmental disabilities, the families who support them, and the people who serve them may know a future of understanding and acceptance.
The Developmental Disabilities Hall of Fame Awards and program are partially supported by the Brighter Tomorrow Foundation, which distributes grants to area non-profit organizations that serve individuals with developmental disabilities.
Criteria and Nomination Forms
Nominations for the Developmental Disabilities Hall of Fame and Erin Ritchey Memorial Awards are accepted year-round. For more information about the nomination process, please visit our "How to Nominate" page.
Watch our previous Recognition Ceremonies
Due to COVID-19, our 2020, 2021 and 2022 recognition ceremonies were held as virtual premieres on the Montgomery County Board of DD YouTube channel. If you missed them, never fear--you can still catch them in the DD Hall of Fame Awards playlist on
our YouTube channel. You can also see the videos recognizing each of our 2023 and 2024 winners.